December 20, 2009 -- Raw Story (US)

CDC: Two-Thirds Of Cocaine Seized On US Borders Cut With
Dangerous Cancer Drug

By Stephen C. Webster

If you're doing cocaine, chances are this story will not make
you quit. But it may make you think twice about your supplier.

A new report by the Centers for Disease control follows 21
cases of the otherwise rare disorder known as agranulocytosis,
which is hallmarked by a severe weakening of immune function.

The condition is brought on by the drug levamisole, which
used to be given to colon cancer patients. It is also widely
used to deworm cattle.

Citing the Drug Enforcement Agency, the CDC report claimed
that 69 percent of all cocaine seized at US borders contains
levamisole. The average concentration was near 10 percent. Tainted
cocaine was also seized in New Mexico and Washington.

While only one death is known to have been caused by the substance,
the report warned that other cases may have gone unnoticed since
the DEA first began tracking the increasing rate of levamisole
contamination in 2002.

Cocaine users, the CDC said, may be less likely to seek medical
treatment; and even if they did, the patient may not disclose
cocaine use to their doctor.

As for why the drug taints such a large portion of cocaine
in the United States, the CDC does not venture a guess.

"The reason why levamisole is added to cocaine remains
unclear," the agency said. It added that levamisol was found
in less than three percent of heroin seizures, and it was at
much lower concentrations than those typically found in cocaine.

"Some studies suggest it intensifies the high by boosting
dopamine levels in the brain," Bloomberg News noted. "Other
reports say it is used to dilute, or cut, the drug."

The CDC said almost all of those suffering from agranulocytosis
experienced "fevers and most also had sore throats,"
MedPage added. "Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, and mouth
sores were common. A few patients reported pain and/or sores
elsewhere in the body.

"CDC has begun national surveillance for agranulocytosis
in association with suspected cocaine or heroin use, collecting
information via medical abstraction form and patient interview,"
the CDC added. "As of December 15, eight states had agreed
to participate."

For the latest drug war news, visit
our friends and allies below

We are careful not to duplicate the efforts of other organizations,
and as a grassroots coalition of prisoners and social reformers,
our resources (time and money) are limited. The vast expertise
and scope of the various drug reform organizations will enable
you to stay informed on the ever-changing, many-faceted aspects
of the movement. Our colleagues in reform also give the latest
drug war news. Please check their websites often.